Just like the building that houses them, the history of the organs of the Saint-André Cathedral in Bordeaux spans centuries. Mention is made of an organ as early as the beginning of the 14th century. Since then, several instruments have succeeded one another almost without interruption to the present day. The current organ was built in the 1970s within an imposing casing, classified as a Historic Monument, and one of the largest in France with its 18th-century lines. An instrument of a rich musical life for nearly 40 years, it suffered from numerous construction and maintenance problems as soon as it was installed in the cathedral.
This organ will thus be the subject of a complete reconstruction, accompanying the cultural revival of the building and crowning its interior restoration. It will regain its splendor thanks to the action of the Cathedra association, which has become one of the main cultural stakeholders in the Bordeaux metropolis.
Excellence, high standards, acoustic and material quality, creativity, and innovation will be the watchwords of this achievement.
The Fondation Etrillard is pleased to contribute, alongside the French State, local authorities, and other patrons, to these major works, which total over 3 million euros. The work, lasting 3 years, will be launched in the winter of 2024, in parallel with the interior restoration of the cathedral’s nave. On this occasion, the Foundation is supporting the musical season of the Bordeaux Cathedral.